Age Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS)

Foods rich in vitamins C, E, Beta-Carotene, zinc, and Copper are not only good for general health, they are beneficial to eye health according to the Age-Related Eye Diseases Study (AREDS), funded by the National Eye Institute, and other research agencies. 

AREDS scientists found that people at high risk for developing advanced AMD, those with intermediate AMD, and those with advanced AMD in one eye only, reduced their risk of developing advanced AMD by about 25 percent when treated with the combination of antioxidants and zinc + copper (final AREDS formula).  The AREDS formula also reduced the risk of central vision loss by 19% in the same group.  However, none of the formulations decreased cataract risk.   The AREDS study determined that the following nutrients may lower the risk of AMD later in life.  

The AREDS formula includes:

· Vitamin C 

· Vitamin E 

· Beta-carotene

· Copper

· Zinc 

AREDS investigators followed participants for an additional five years.  Ten years after enrollment, about 70% of participants were taking the antioxidants plus zinc + copper formulation (AREDS formula).  The investigators found that participants who had been assigned to antioxidants plus zinc + copper formulation in the trial were 25-30% less likely to develop advanced AMD than those who had originally been assigned to placebo.  Among participants at the highest risk for AMD, 34% who had taken the antioxidants plus zinc + copper (AREDS formula) in the trial progressed to advanced AMD, compared to 44% who had taken the placebo. 

AREDS2, the second study was launched to determine the efficacy and safety of Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplementation to reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD.  The AREDS studies have found that people with AMD may be able to slow the progression of the disease by taking a special nutrient supplements that have been developed as a result of the AREDS2 research.  The AREDS2 formulation does not contain beta carotene and adds omega-3 fatty acids Lutein and Zeaxanthin.

The AREDS2 formula includes:

· Vitamin C 

· Vitamin E 

· Copper

· Lutein 

· Zeaxanthin 

· Zinc 

The results of the AREDS and AREDS2 studies are promising news for people who are at risk for or already have AMD.  However, it is important to discuss taking macular supplements with your ophthalmologist to determine if they are recommended for you.  There are many people who should avoid taking large doses of antioxidants or zinc for medical reasons.  If you currently take an older version of the supplement based on the original AREDS formula, please ask your ophthalmologist before you switch to an AREDS 2 formula.

People who smoke should consult their physician before taking the original AREDS supplement, because one of the ingredients, beta carotene, and or vitamin A has been associated with a higher risk of lung cancer in smokers or people who have recently quit smoking.  An alternate version of the original AREDS supplement formulated to be safe for smokers is available.  Your ophthalmologist can give you more information on this option.

Please remember: vitamins and nutritional supplements are not a cure for eye disease, nor will they give you back vision that you may have already lost.  But good nutrition at all ages is vital for your entire body and plays an important role in maintaining healthy eyes.  Talk with your ophthalmologist about any concerns you have about your eye health.

Sources: 

Diet and Nutrition. (2019, November 07). Retrieved September 22, 2020, from  

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/diet-nutrition

AREDS/AREDS2 Clinical Trials. (2020, April 13). Retrieved September 23, 2020, from https://www.nei.nih.gov/research/clinical-trials/age-related-eye-disease-studies-aredsareds2/about-areds-and-areds2